| Gaming has taken root and there are no signs | | | | must teach their kids especially very young |
| of the popularity abating. Children as well | | | | ones about the dangers lurking on the |
| as adults are all hooked to computer and | | | | internet. |
| video gaming in a big way. And, the internet | | | | |
| has added a dash of excitement into gaming as | | | | 5. Learn all about downloadable mods |
| players can now not just play online but | | | | that alter the content of games. Mods can |
| compete online. | | | | change the appropriateness of the game for |
| | | | young players so parents must be vigilant. |
| The gaming world realizes that if they are to | | | | |
| sustain a multi-billion dollar business they | | | | 6. Always invest in video game consoles |
| must care not just for the gamers but their | | | | and handhelds that have parental controls. |
| parents too. The Entertainment Software | | | | This will enable you to limit the gaming |
| Rating Board or ESRB has issued video gaming | | | | content your children can access. Using |
| tips as a guide for parents. The ESRB is the | | | | parental controls will ensure that the |
| one that tests video games and rates them so | | | | children only play games that are appropriate |
| that parents can select suitable games for | | | | to them. |
| children of different age groups. | | | | |
| | | | 7. Know your child's nature and buy |
| 1. Parents must check the ratings and | | | | games that will nurture the child's holistic |
| examine the rating symbol on the front of the | | | | growth. Games are known to have many |
| package as well as read the content | | | | benefits, us them to your advantage. |
| descriptor at the back when buying a game. | | | | |
| The ESRB site has in depth information about | | | | 8. Know the games your kids play by |
| games rated by them. | | | | reading their reviews online and joining |
| | | | gaming blogs and forum. Read game reviews and |
| 2. Never depend on advertisements, | | | | watch game trailers and demos. |
| always talk to parents and older children to | | | | |
| get an holistic view of the game you intend | | | | 9. Make time to interact with your |
| to buy. | | | | children. Play games with them and teach them |
| | | | that gaming is not harmful if played right. |
| 3. Be a friend to your child and play | | | | Win their confidence so that they are open |
| the games with him or her. There is nothing | | | | with you and share their fears and joys. |
| like a hands on experience. | | | | |
| | | | 10. Take the kids to game expos and |
| 4. Beware of online gaming as very often | | | | exhibitions. Learn all about the gaming |
| the game has unrated components. Online | | | | world. Keep one step ahead at all times and |
| gaming also has features like chats and | | | | your kids will be able to play games without |
| exchange of ideas and information. Parents | | | | any problems. |